title: Cognitive adaptation theory as a means to PTSD reduction among cancer pain patients.
abstract: Eighty-nine cancer pain patients participated in a study evaluating components of the Cognitive Adaptation Index on symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Positive correlations were found between optimism, mastery, and self-esteem. Inverse relationships with a PTSD symptom scale were also established. Multiple regression analyses for aggregate PTSD scores, avoidance/numbing, and arousal symptoms were each significant at p < 0.0001, intrusive symptoms at p < 0.020. Except for intrusive symptoms, self-esteem played a statistically significant mediating role for the influence of other variables. These results are discussed regarding their impact on PTSD, intervention strategies, and mental health of individuals experiencing stress.
authors.affiliation: Fielding Graduate University, Santa Barbara, CA, USA. sschwabish@gmail.com
authors.forename: Stephen D
authors.initials: SD
authors.lastname: Schwabish
mesh_terms: D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D001143:Arousal; D001294:Attitude to Health; D002605:Character; D057189:Checklist; D003674:Defense Mechanisms; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007389:Internal-External Control; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009042:Motivation; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000523:psychology*; D010146:Pain / Q000523:psychology*; D010555:Personality Inventory / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D011582:Psychological Theory; D011594:Psychometrics; D012649:Self Concept; D013313:Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / Q000517:prevention & control* / Q000523:psychology*; D055815:Young Adult